The best DSLR cameras of 2024 for young photographers

Photography is an art form, and one that we have perhaps begun to take for granted.

Everyone has a camera in their pocket these days, and many of those cameras are half-decent at taking pictures — but none are a part of the industry standard. If you’re looking to take your photography more seriously, you’ll want a DSLR. But where to start?

DSLR stands for ‘Digital Single-Lens Reflex’, referring to the form and function of the camera.

DSLRs borrow their form and essential aspects of their function from SLRs before them, film cameras which used a mirror to reflect the view of the lens up into a special optical pentaprism. The ‘D’ suffix represents the replacement of analogue film with a light sensor – the type and fidelity of which can have dramatic impacts on the ‘feel’ of the photographs produced.

Within the DSLR format, there are many variables to consider, such as sensor type and size. But professional photographers have considerations beyond raw specifications. “When it comes to a DSLR, I always compare price, image quality and lens compatibility,” says Natasha Koziarska, a music and event photographer who has worked on gigs for the likes of Feeder, The Darkness and Shame.

“I find I often stick with a brand I know well, as the image tones and camera interface are familiar to me. Also, it means I can use my old lenses on a new camera!” This is because DSLRs are camera bodies that take different lenses for different shooting styles; brands have their own proprietary lens mounting designs, which can make using lenses from other brands less than ideal – even with a suitable adapter.

“A bonus for me too is its weight,” adds Koziarska, “and how easy it is to handle over time.” Concert photographers will become aware of the weight of their gear, and wide shots with heavier gear can work to the detriment of both the shooter and the shooter.

The DSLR camera is an indispensable tool, but it is one that faces stiff competition from an ever-evolving medium. Some say it is nearing the end of its life cycle, all related to technological evolution. Newer mirrorless cameras are lighter, more faithful and faster to shoot, while smartphone manufacturers have gotten better at squeezing high-fidelity sensors into small dimensions.

But none of this makes the DSLR any less practical than it is as a format – and some DSLR models remain the gold standard for professional digital photography.

What this means is that new DSLR releases are increasingly few and far between as manufacturers turn their attention to the possibilities of new formats and technologies.

As such, many of the products in this collection have spent little time on the market, some of which have been in production for nearly a decade. The fact that they remain competitive and sought-after cameras in today’s landscape speaks volumes for their quality and performance. But of this vast and well-known culture, which one should you consider for your photographic pursuits?

We’ve rounded up the best below for you to check out.